A Christian lawyer who fled Sudan amid ongoing paramilitary conflict has warned that Britain is indirectly fueling the crisis through its links with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
It comes as the International Criminal Court (ICC) has warned of possible war crimes in Sudan’s Darfur region, after the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized control of the city of Al-Fashir, the army’s last stronghold.
Mohaned has partnered with Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) since leaving his homeland.
“What’s happening in Al-Fashir is really horrific,” he told Premier Christian News. “The ICC’s decision is a positive step… but what we want to see is countries stop fueling the war.”
He explained that the UK’s arms dealings with the UAE mean British weapons are being sold indirectly to the RSF: “Sudan is one of the richest countries in gold and minerals. The UAE market is full of Sudanese gold, which has our blood on it... The RSF has been receiving support from the UAE for a very long time.”
“UK-made weapons have been used in this genocide,” he alleged. “We need to let the UK government know: ‘This is not good.’”
Violence, particularly against women and girls, is widespread under RSF control. The situation is even worse for Christians, who face persecution for not following the RSF’s Islamist beliefs.
“Darfur is described as a 100 percent Muslim region, but in reality there are thousands of Christians there who cannot practice or worship,” said Mohaned. “Even though it is not a crime to convert to Christianity, the community authorities will not accept it.”
CSW had been working with a church in the region that was “destroyed” by the RSF. It had been providing food and shelter to people who were internally displaced. Since the attack, CSW has been unable to verify the whereabouts of the priest or whether members of the congregation are safe.
Mohaned insisted that believers in the UK are “not powerless” to help during the crisis.
“You can spread the word,” he said. “Pray for us, and support organizations that support Christians in Sudan. We need to keep praying.”
Names have been changed for safety.